Samuel Merritt University Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Last updated: June 24, 2025
Program Address
Samuel Merritt University – Oakland Campus | 3100 Telegraph Avenue | Oakland, CA 94609
Program Overview
Samuel Merritt University Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Samuel Merritt University offers a rigorous, full-time pathway for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and are ready to transition into the nursing profession. Completed in just 12 months across three intensive semesters, the program is available at four California campuses—Oakland, Sacramento, San Mateo, and Fresno—providing flexibility in location while maintaining a consistent, high-quality educational experience. Students complete 52 units of nursing coursework, combining hands-on clinical practice with simulation-based learning and classroom instruction. Accredited by the CCNE and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, the program is designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into practice and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN. With a cohort-based structure, experienced faculty, and access to top-tier clinical sites, Samuel Merritt’s ABSN program is among the fastest and most focused nursing pathways in the state.
Program Structure & Duration
- Length: 12 months over 3 consecutive semesters
- Format: Full‑time, cohort‑based, on‑campus program—outside employment strongly discouraged due to intensity .
Curriculum Highlights
- Credit Hours: 52 nursing units
- Courses Cover:
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Pharmacology & Pathophysiology
- Adult/Maternal‑Child, Pediatric, Mental Health, Community Health
- Health Assessment & Professional Transitions
- Clinical Experience: Integrated clinical practice at affiliated hospitals across Oakland, Sacramento, San Mateo, Fresno, including placements at prominent health systems.
Supportive Learning Environment
- Simulation Labs: Access to the Health Sciences Simulation Center
- Cohort Support: Strong peer cohesion and faculty mentoring built into the program .
- Student Resources: Dedicated financial aid webinars, advising and scholarship support
Accreditation & Licensure Preparation
- Institutional Accreditation: WASC Senior College & University Commission (WSCUC)
- Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); approved by CA Board of Registered Nursing
Admission Requirements
- Degree Requirement: Must hold a bachelor’s degree in a non‑nursing field (regionally accredited)
- GPA: Recommended minimum 3.0‑GPA in last 60 units, and in science prerequisites
- Prerequisites (all C or better):
- English Comp, Communication, Sociology, Lifespan Psychology, Nutrition, Statistics, Anatomy & Physiology I & II w/ labs, Chemistry w/ lab, Microbiology w/ lab, Pharmacology, Pathophysiology
- Other Requirements:
- Two letters of reference (science faculty + healthcare professional)
- Short-answer essay responses
- If transferring from another nursing program: letter from dean indicating good standing
Tuition & Financial Information
- Per‑Unit Cost: $1,885/unit (for 52-unit program)
- Total Tuition Estimate: ~$98,000 (2024–2025 academic year)
- Fees:
- $60 NursingCAS application fee
- $350 non-refundable deposit upon admission
- Financial Aid: Eligible for loans and scholarships (FAFSA, institutional aid); federal grants not available for second bachelor’s degree
Application & Start Dates
- Locations: Oakland, Sacramento, San Mateo (Peninsula), Fresno campuses
- Upcoming Deadlines:
- Fresno Summer – December 1, 2024
- Oakland/Fresno/Sac Peninsula Summer – December 1, 2024
- Sacramento/Fresno Fall – April 1, 2025
- Oakland Fall – July 6, 2025
- Sacramento/Sac Peninsula Spring – July 15, 2025
Flexibility & Accessibility
- Full‑Time / On‑Campus: High‑intensity, in-person format with clinicals / labs scheduled weekdays and weekends.
- Cohort Model: Designed for seamless progression; limited schedule flexibility.
- Campus Options: Four Northern CA campuses to choose based on proximity .
- Support for Commuters: Local campuses reduce travel; some virtual resources likely via webinars.
Overview Table
| Criteria | Samuel Merritt University ABSN |
|---|---|
| Program Name & Institution | Accelerated BSN, Samuel Merritt University College of Nursing |
| Accreditation | WSCUC; CCNE-accredited; Approved by California BRN |
| Program Duration | 12 months (3 semesters) |
| Credit Hours | 52 nursing units |
| Enrollment | Full-time cohort, on-campus only |
| Start Terms & Locations | Summer, Fall & Spring at Oakland, Sacramento, San Mateo, Fresno |
| Learning Format | In-person lectures, labs, simulation & clinicals |
| Tuition | $1,885/unit (~52 units = ~$98,000) + $60 app fee + $350 deposit |
| Flexibility | Cohort-based with fixed schedule; intense pace |
| Accessibility | Four Northern CA campus locations; strong faculty and peer support |
Disclaimer: Program details such as duration, tuition, and admissions requirements may change. Please verify the most current information on the official Samuel Merritt University website: https://www.samuelmerritt.edu/academic-programs/absn.